27 Dresses

Ever since I heard about this movie a few months ago, I've been waiting in great anticipation to see it. After all, this is probably one of the few chick flicks coming out... since Knocked Up!
Just the name 27 Dresses is a selling point for me. And this cute poster with mention of "Devil Wears Prada" helps too! The actual plot is about how Jane (Katherine Heigl) is a professional bridesmaid, who has willingly donned on some pretty horrible dresses in order to "be there" for her friends on their special day.
In fact, she has 27 of them. Usually I'm quite envious of people's overflowing wardrobes in movies (think Clueless), but I think I'll make an exception in this case.... The story revolves around how Jane's sister, Tess (Malin Akerman) comes into town and falls in love with Jane's boss George- who Jane happens to be in love with for a loooong time! I thought it was quite amazing how they managed to make Katherine Heigl (whom I always thought looked quite pretty in Grey's Anatomy) look like the "plain Jane" in this movie compared to Tess.
During that time, Jane also meets Kevin (James Marsden!) the wedding journalist for the New York Journal- and the chick flick romance begins.
I've loved James Marsden since his appearance in Ally McBeal many years ago (where he sang Frank Sinatra...sigh!) and his recent Prince charming role in Enchanted was not bad either (if a bit dumbed down). But I LOVE LOVE LOVE his look here. While in his other roles, he'd always had that clean, preppy pretty boy look, his role in this movie as a journalist is ruggedly handsome and charming...sigh............ :)

Over all I liked the movie. I love weddings. I love chick flick happy endings. And I LOVE LOVE LOVE James Marsden. It was just the light hearted fun movie I was looking for. I know that many reviews have found this movie to be sexist because it portrays getting married as the life goal of women, but personally I think that is just the opinion of the female lead here and everyone is entitled to their own opinions and so its not reflective of a whole gender. What did everyone else think?

Image Source: Yahoo Movies

Man Fashion: Do You Have a Perfect Fashion Dress Suit?

Every fashion designer and fashion expert will give any men this advice when it comes to what they should have in their closet. They will say that every man needs to own at least one nice fashion dress suit no matter what they do or a living. You never know when you find it necessary to wear your men suit such as a wedding, funeral or a job or job interview that requires business attire. You are always taken a little more seriously if you are wearing a nice men suit.

If you have no idea how to choose men's fashion dress suit. Here are a few general guidelines you can always follow when considering buying a new men fashion dress suit.

• Choose a fabric – You absolutely, positively cannot go wrong with purchasing a worsted wools men fashion dress suit. I’m also talking about gabardines and mid-weight corded wools as well. As you are shopping around the different stores looking for men fashion dress suits, you’re going to come across ones that are labeled “Super 100”. This only means the yarn was twisted more often than the usual 60-80 twist wools but it is considered to be a mid-weight. Look for fabric that springs back after it's squeezed without wrinkling.

• How the pants fit - The waistline of men trousers need to be comfortable. The test to see how well men trousers fit is to stick two fingers into the waist while you're wearing them. If you are able to do this, then they fit properly. As far as pleated pants are concerned, it depends on your body type. If you are a little chubby in the stomach area, then you can get away with wearing pleats since it will help cover it up. If you are thinner, then stay away from them. Pleats will only make you appear skinnier.

• Sleeve length - The sleeve length needs to be exact and the correct length. You’ll end up looking like a bum or someone who borrowed your little brother’s dress suit at the last moment. Neither of those options are a good look. You’ll know the sleeve is too long if it covers your shirt cuff. You want the sleeve to just reach the base of your thumb, revealing a half inch to an inch of your shirt cuff.

• Your pants hem – If you’re looking to make a horrible impression in your men fashion dress suit, then just pay no attention the length of your pants and make sure they aren’t hemmed. Now seriously, they should reach your shoes with a slight break. You can either go with pants that are cuffed or un-cuffed, but cuff-less give the impression you are taller. Pants with cuffs give off the appearance of more maturity.

• Jacket waist - The men fashion dress suit’s jacket needs to fit easily across your stomach in order to appear professional. A traditional American cut fashion dress suit known for its signature two buttons and a mainstay for many years is now being replaced by fitted suit jackets with three and four buttons. Shop around for fitted waistlines that enhance the shape of your body if even you prefer either style, classic or modern.

• Fit of the suit – A good fitting business attire suit should allow you to stretch and bend without any problems and have a free range of movement for your arms. To be sure you have this, bring your arms out straight in front of you. The most important thing to remember is you should always be comfortable no matter what.

Tags:Man Fashion, Men Dress Suit, Sleeve Lengthe, Men Fashion Tips, Men Fashion Designer

Haute Couture S/S08 III

Starting with Armani's tribute to Valentino:

This post, like all of the other recent haute couture posts, is all about Valentino's final show. The old-school king of romance is retiring after more than 40 years of designing flowery and lacey dresses. Personally, I've always been neutral about Valentino. To me, Valentino is a well-respected designer who has been around for a very long time. I don't exactly love or hate his designs because I wasn't even born yet during some of his more memorable designer years and because such fancy clothes isn't exactly studentwear. But this is the very final Valentino show, so let's take some time to admire the final work of a master:

Take note of the Phillip Tracey hats -they're so pretty! Isn't the bow on Natalia V.'s head SO adorable? I could totally imagine a red one on Blair (Gossip Girl)!

OK, so I admit I can't tell the difference between this collection and Valentino's RTW line. They just all look very lady-like to me.

The gold, 20's dress on the left is one of my favourite from this collection. It's modern but still very classic-looking.

Flowers in many different forms -a signature of Valentino's.

Chic and elegant.

Gorgeous! Don't the purple/ pink flowers just look like they're growing on a vine on these dresses?

These dresses look so big and puffy, yet still so light and floaty. Just what certain romantic dresses are supposed to look like.

The silver (or is it white?) dress on Vlada (right) is another one of my favourite dresses in this collection. It's SO gorgeous!
Farewell Valentino!

Image credit: www.vogue.co.uk

Man Fashion: Gold Chain Fashion is Back?

Do you think gold chain is back again this year? Well, it all depend on individual, and depend on which part of the world you are living. Gold chain used to has a lot to say, when it comes to men's fashion in those years. Way back then in the middle Ages, gold chains were rewarded as gifts in a traditional way to royal courts for loyal service.

A chain has many different styles and each one has its own distinct message. They can stand alone as a strong fashion statement. Some styles may give a man an impression of boldness, mystery and power.

The most popular styles are Snake, Rope, Figaro, Wheat design, Venetian Link, Cuban link, Mariner, Curb and Box Chain. Nevertheless, there will always be new styles and designs which will be continuously created by artisans.

With the abundance in styles it's a little bit hard to make a decision. If chosen correctly, a chain will make an impression and show your personality. Figaro, mariner or curb chains are classic pieces with the repeat pattern. Figaro with a long link that connects to three short links; this particular design whispers romance and subtle class. This one, whether it's yellow or white gold, will make you exude power and an impression of luxury. Rope chain is just the height of sophistication. It's a perfect choice if you want the look of intelligence and mystery. These are classic designs originated in Italy and mostly manufactured in Italy.

Not all that glitters is gold. Spend some time doing research before you decide to purchase a chain for yourself. Lots of them on the market are gold plated or gold layered. They look shiny at first but later wear down and the metal (usually, copper, nickel or zinc) underneath shows up. Remember, all men's jewelry should be of excellent quality.

Tags: Man Fashion, Gold Chain, Men Fashion Accessory, Men Fashion Tips

Man Fashion: How to Choose Your Sport Shoes

So far we have touched on fashion dress shoes, and today we will be focus on sport shoes, or athletic shoes. Sport shoes are a special part of men's clothing. As a active man, you need shoes that are durable, lightweight, probably well made and of course with styles. Basketball shoes are typically the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks on men's athletic shoes. There are many other types of shoes besides basketball. All sport shoes for men are made basically the same with a few differences such as cleats and height.There are also a few categories of shoes that make a difference in wear and comfort. From the cheapest shoes to the most expensive men's athletic shoes vary. It is important that you find the right shoe to fit you individual needs for training, durability and comfort.

Motion Control Shoes
The first category is Motion Control Shoes. These shoes are the most rigid, control orientated and durable. The normal motion of the foot is important to keep in mind when purchasing these types of shoes. The motion control shoes help limit the motion of the foot so they are not excessively moving around making injury a greater risk.

Stability Shoes
Another type of shoe category is Stability Shoes. Stability means that there is good support, cushioning, and durability. Men who are of average weight and do not have a need for motion controlled shoes will find these provide the right support.

Cushion Shoes
Cushioned Shoes are ideal for those who do not have a lot of excess motion in their foot and are not in need of additional support. A man of average weight and size may find these to be appropriate for him.

Lightweight Training Shoes
Another type of shoe would be the Lightweight Training Shoes. These are very light and are intended for racing and fast paced training. Efficient runners with no motion control problems will find these are perfect for them.

Trial Shoes
Finally Trail Shoes are good for off road or inclement weather. They have extra stability for added traction. They are very durable. It is imperative to plan ahead when exercising and playing sports. Alternating your shoes is a way to give your feet a brief workout. They will rest the muscles used in the other shoes while working ones to adjust to the ones you changed into. Also your work out or sport shoes will last longer if you wear them only when needed as opposed to all the time.

Some Other Tips

• Buying men's sport shoes are to always shop late in the day since feet tend to swell a bit as the day progresses.
  
• It is important to always measure your feet while standing; the change in size is enough to make your new shoes uncomfortable if you don't.
  
• Make sure you try on both shoes with socks on. Some people's feet are slightly different sizes.
  
• When you choose a pair always buy the size of your larger foot.
• If the shoes hurt the first time you try them on then don't buy them. They will not get more comfortable later on.
  
• Before training in your new shoes break them in by wearing them around the house.
  
• Make sure you don't wear outdoor if you think you might want to return to the store.
  

Tags: Man Fashion, Motion Control Shoes, Stability Shoes, Cushion Shoes, Lightweight Training Shoes, Trial Shoes

New look du Barcelona

Rhabiller le mythique fauteuil Barcelona, dessiné par l'architecte Mies Van Der Rohe (1886, Aix-la-Chapelle Allemagne - 1969, Chicago) en 1929, n'était pas chose facile.

Et pourtant la jeune décoratrice espagnole Lucia Peiro l'a osé. Ainsi, notre fauteuil, tout en gardant la même ligne, avec ses pieds en croix, est relooké en tissus de Tapicería Gancedo fabriqués en Espagne et en Italie. Ces imprimés baroques aux tons chauds, vont créer une atmosphère plus lounge et plus raffinée.

Certains pourront lui préférer son habit de peau originel, plus épuré et plus zen, mais il faut reconnaître que bousculer un grand classique du design, reste un défit qu'on ne peut que féliciter.

Prix public : de 1159 à 1259 euros

Haute Couture S/S08 II

Chanel
To be honest, the last few seasons of Chanel have not been too impressive for me. It was either uninspiring or so artistic that it was beyond my comprehension. But in this season's haute couture show, the Chanel I know is finally back. The collection was simply AMAZING and I loved everything on the runway. Inspired by spiraling forms and delicate colors of shells, the models resembled youthful nymphs flowing down the runway. According to the reviews, there was also a giant Chanel jacket made of concrete in the room, that reminds one of the Tristan throne in the Little Mermaid, further alluding to the sea theme.
By pairing the classic Chanel suit jackets with these short draping and pleated skirts, Karl cleverly adds a flirty fun touch to the whole outfit.
The collar of the long coat (left) adds a modern touch to a classic piece. And the exaggerated style of the white blouse (right) is elegantly distinctive and not clownish at all (as over exaggerated pieces tend to be).
The evening/cocktail dresses were the best. Karl had beautiful romantic pieces (like above), exquisitely made with frills and details, that were pretty, girly and very very feminine.
He also had more modern youthful fun pieces that were totally adorable and cute.
He then had modern yet more sophisticatedly designed pieces that were elegant and simply stunning. The workmanship of that silver long dress is simply genius. The frills, the different materials and those two pockets- genius!
And of course there were black dresses (wouldn't be a Chanel runway without black dresses!). These are definitely more creative and different from the black Chanel dresses we're all used to. In fact, the black dress on the left reminds me a teensy bit of Armani......
And I love love love the last silver dress (right). She looks exactly what I imagine a fairy/nymph would look like. I especially like the fact that it is more loosely cut and not like all those super fitted evening wears out there we're so used to seeing.
Another thing I love about this show are the mary jane the flats throughout. All the models wore flats with outfit, which gave an extra youthful touch to all the outfits- even the evening wear. It totally made me rethink the role of flats. That sit, after I write this I am going to go dig out my mary jane flats!
Oooh and the hair. I LOVE the hairstyle, they made them look like fairies even more. I wonder how I can make this look more wearable..... perhaps a neat bun with gorgeous sparkly hair accessories?

Christian Lacroix
The theme of the Christian Lacriox show was, An Angel Passing By. I don't really see how that is from the outfits, but maybe it is something one feels when one is there? Anyway, despite that, I thought the collection was quite marvelous. It was everything I expected from a Christian Lacroix haute couture show. As the reviewer on style.com said, "...Lacroix is doing nothing new. The ideas that went into this incredible collection are the ones he's always worked at: influences from the eighteeth century, fin de siècle Paris, and gypsy costume." And I totally agree. What is really marvelous about his collection is the genius way he throws the most unlikely fabrics and colors together and makes it work in the most stunning way visually. His intricate and exquisite workmanship is also unparalleled.
An excellent example of his mastery with mixing. Who would've thought that red plaid, blue brocade and leopard print and blue/black strips, red plaid and leopard print would go so well together?
Admittedly a lot of times, his outfits are more costume like than ever, but that IS the point of haute couture. Just LOOK at the workmanship! How does the sleeves (and the dress for that matter) hold up (left)??? How does the drapes and shape of the skirts stay that way?
My personal favourite outfits were his blue ones. I'm not sure if it is simply a personal obsessions with blue for me or not, but the blue outfits just looks STUNNING. He had these two that were distinctively Victorian with a bit of an equestrian feel.
And these two blue creations are also brilliant in a more "modern" style that is both vibrant and youthful.
I am still trying to decide whether these two would make vividly gorgeous wedding dresses in reality (minus all that heavy headgear etc) or would just make a bad memory.

Regardless of its practicality in real life, the Lacroix collection was a visual feast for those of us who love beautiful things.

Givenchy
On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Givenchy collection that is the antithesis to Lacroix's style. While Lacroix had vibrant hues and an array of different patterns and flowing textures, Riccardo Tisci had subdued colors and a structured style that is distinctively minimalist. Yet they both equally make us salivate with lust just looking at them. Inspired by the gothic ballerina, the shape of the skirts were both flowing and structured all at once. How does he DO it??? With a lot of starch? And the tailoring of the jacket (left) and the ruffles (right) on the top is just genius.
The outfit on the left is the definition of minimalism. And the white dress is a beeeeeautiful work of art.
Besides black and white, Tisci also experimented with metallic fabrics and other bold colors (he also had a really really all red dress!). I love the shape and tailoring of the metallic dress (left) and how he mixed the fabrics in the green/white dress (right).
I absolutely LOVE these two dresses. You know how in Project Runway they talk about how a collection needs to be coherent yet not repetitive? Well I think these two are the definition of that. They are obviously from the same collection, yet one is feminine and girly (left) and one is styled and sophisticated.

Image Source: Elle.com